How the war in Ukraine fuels Christian persecution in Eastern Europe
The ongoing war in Ukraine has intensified Christian persecution across Eastern Europe and Russia, largely due to heightened tensions, strained resources, and the manipulation of religious communities in the context of nationalism and conflict. While religious tensions existed prior to the conflict, the war has exacerbated the targeting of Christians, especially those who do not align with the dominant religious or political ideologies in areas affected by the war.
In Russian-occupied territories, Christians outside of the Russian Orthodox Church are increasingly marginalized and even persecuted. The Russian Orthodox Church, closely allied with the Kremlin, has historically supported Russian nationalism and the nation’s military activities, framing them as a spiritual mission. Consequently, non-Orthodox Christian groups, such as Baptists, Pentecostals, and Jehovah’s Witnesses, face increased suspicion and repression. These groups are often viewed by Russian authorities as “Western” influences, which has led to forced church closures, detentions, and harassment, particularly in occupied Ukrainian regions where Russia seeks to enforce its ideological control. Ukrainian Christians in these areas, who may oppose Russian dominance, are often specifically targeted due to their national identity and religious beliefs.
In Ukraine, where a significant portion of the population belongs to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (affiliated with the Moscow Patriarchate), tensions have risen as well. Since the start of the conflict, the Kyiv government has increasingly scrutinized this church’s ties to Moscow, given concerns about potential loyalty to Russian interests. This has led to heightened tensions within the country, with the government more actively monitoring and sometimes restricting Moscow-affiliated churches due to fears that they could become conduits for pro-Russian propaganda.
Additionally, the war has worsened socio-economic conditions for Christians in both countries, especially minorities, making it more challenging for faith-based charities and humanitarian organizations to provide aid. With increasing nationalism in both Ukraine and Russia, religious groups that emphasize peace, reconciliation, or criticize the war face significant risks. Human rights organizations have documented cases of pastors and religious leaders who have been detained or disappeared in Russian-controlled areas for speaking out against the conflict.
In this complex environment, the war has thus intensified an already difficult situation for Christians in Eastern Europe, where faith can become both a target and a tool in a larger geopolitical struggle. The outcome is a deepening crisis for religious freedom as Christians in these regions navigate the challenges of practising their faith amid war and political upheaval.
